Kuwaiti MP Saleh Ashour, the second oldest lawmaker in the National Assembly who will chair the house’s opening session, invited lawmakers on Tuesday to attend the new parliament’s opener on Sunday, April 21.
Ashour said the Assembly’s secretariat contacted former speaker Ahmad Al-Saadoun, who is the oldest member at 90 years old, to chair the opening session, but he apologized because he plans to run for the speaker’s post.
As a result, Ashour officially became the lawmaker to chair the opening session.
Ashour told the press at the National Assembly’s media center that the Assembly is meeting on April 21 as per constitutional deadlines for the 18th legislative term, as stated in Article 87.
Around 37 MPs confirmed they'll attend the opening session, following constitutional timelines.
Ashour clarified that due to Decree No. 67 of 2024, the session planned for April 17 is canceled, with the Assembly now convening on May 14 instead.
He emphasized that the April 21 session is in line with constitutional requirements, held after the two-week post-election period, ensuring transparency and dispelling any doubts.
Moreover, Kuwaiti lawmakers have urged Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the newly appointed Prime Minister, to focus more on citizens’ daily struggles.
His appointment comes after the previous caretaker Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, stepped down following the recent parliamentary elections.
Ashour stressed that the new premier must prioritize citizens’ welfare in his government’s plans.
Ashour stated that they hope Sheikh Ahmad’s cabinet will include qualified ministers committed to addressing citizens’ needs and improving their lives with a realistic action plan.
Lawmaker Fayez Al-Jumhour, on his part, stressed that the parliament and government should collaborate to improve citizens’ living standards.
MP Janan Boushahri also noted on “X” that the new prime minister has time to select competent ministers dedicated to the constitution.
Boushahri emphasized that cooperation is vital when it benefits the state and citizens.
She added that oversight is essential if the government deviates from the constitution or protects wrongdoers.
